The Kitale Film Week has today announced its 2025 line-up as they prepare to host the much-anticipated third edition. Kitale Film Week 2025 is set to bring a dazzling array of films to the heart of Kenya, showcasing the rich diversity and creative brilliance of filmmakers from across Africa, with a few films out of competition coming from outside the continent. From February 2nd to February 9th, Kitale will become a cinematic hub, hosting narrative features, documentaries, short films, and animated works that explore themes ranging from social justice to cultural heritage, environmental sustainability, and the transformative power of storytelling.
A Stellar Lineup of Films
This year’s selection boasts over 50 films from 20 countries, spanning multiple genres and styles. Highlights include:
- "Nawi" (Kenya) – A powerful drama addressing child marriage and the fight for girls' education, co-directed by Kevin Schmutzler, Toby Schmutzler, Apuu Mourine Munyes, and Vallentine Chelluget. This film has already earned acclaim as Kenya’s official submission for the 97th Academy Awards.
- "Hanami" (Cape Verde) – A poetic coming-of-age story set against the stunning volcanic landscapes of Cape Verde, directed by Denise Fernandes.
- "Mission Xylara" (Uganda) – A sci-fi thriller set in 2056, blending suspense and high-tech adventure under the visionary direction of Denis Junior Dhikusooka.
- "Mandabi" (Senegal) – A restored African classic by Ousmane Sembène, presented in collaboration with Institut Français, celebrating its legacy as the first African film shot in an African language.
- "A Country Called Ghana" (Ghana) – Starring legendary Nigerian actor Ramsey Nouah, this comedic drama by Frank Gharbin explores cultural preservation and the fight against foreign exploitation in a small Ghanaian village. The film is a standout for its humor, patriotism, and its powerful message about unity and resilience.
- "The Sorghum Sisters" (Kenya) – A documentary directed by Tabitha Maina that highlights the resilience of Turkana women adapting to climate change through innovative farming practices.
A Platform for Emerging Talent
Kitale Film Week has long been a champion of emerging voices in cinema since its inception where it has primarily focused on Kenya and Ugandan films in the first two editions. This year’s program includes works like:
- "Half Chocolate Half Vanilla" (Uganda) – A heartfelt exploration of self-acceptance and love, directed by Nodryn Evanci Kabuye.
- "Tiny Winnie" (Kenya) – A poignant psychological drama delving into mental health and faith, directed by Kitale-based filmmaker Joshua Kasyu Wambua.
- "Njambi and The Missing Bananas" (Kenya) – A heartwarming family drama by Wanyuru Muiruri that explores childhood mischief and family dynamics.
These films demonstrate the festival’s commitment to amplifying diverse stories and nurturing young talents from Kenya and beyond.
Focus on Collaboration and Cultural Exchange
Kitale Film Week 2025 will go beyond the screen, offering a wide range of activities to foster dialogue and collaboration within the global film community. Panel discussions will bring together esteemed filmmakers, actors, and producers to discuss critical topics such as the role of cinema in driving social change, preserving cultural heritage, and navigating the evolving landscape of digital filmmaking.
Workshops will provide budding filmmakers with hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities, covering topics such as screenwriting, cinematography, and film distribution. Notable collaborations with organizations like Tunga Media Africa, Rushlake Media, TidPix, and the French Institute aim to ensure that participants leave equipped with the tools and networks necessary to thrive in the industry. The programme for school screenings in the Film-in-Education programme will be announced at a later date.
Celebrating African Classics
A special section of the festival will be dedicated to restored African classics, presenting timeless films that have shaped the continent’s cinematic history, including the first African language feature film, ‘Mandabi’ (Senegal), made by Ousmane Sembene. Audiences will have the opportunity to rediscover gems such as "Life Is Rosy" (DR Congo), a celebration of music and ambition featuring the iconic Papa Wemba, and "Dancing in the Dust" (Ivory Coast), masterpieces that highlight Africa’s storytelling brilliance. Screenings are made possible through partnerships with Institut Français and the Embassy of France in Kenya and Somalia, further enriching the festival’s cultural tapestry.
Showcasing Documentary Excellence
This year’s festival places a strong emphasis on documentary filmmaking, shining a light on real-life stories that inspire, challenge, and educate. Highlights include:
- "Descendants of Broken Heroes" (Kenya) – A poignant exploration of generational trauma and mental health in Nyeri County.
- "Our Land, Our Freedom" (Kenya) – A powerful narrative chronicling the journey for justice and land rights in post-colonial Kenya.
- "The Equalizer" (Kenya) – A groundbreaking documentary celebrating an all-women film crew reshaping the industry.
These films highlight the transformative power of documentaries in uncovering hidden stories and sparking meaningful conversations.
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